About me

I was born in Agen, south west France. As far as I remember, I have always been doodling on my schoolbooks margins or on the class tables, which costed me a fair number of punishments. Attracted to any form of creation, I've mostly devoted my teenage years to computer creation, passionate about programming, and had to wait until the age of eighteen before I got involved into painting, thanks to my exciting street art (not to say graffiti) period. In parallel I have tried a lot of painting technics, such as airbrushing that sounded like the natural tool for switching from walls to paper. I was about 22 when, tired of the ephemeral nature of graffiti, I really started to get involved into drawing. I practiced a lot thanks to various crafts for my engineering school's gazette, party posters or t-shirts. Thanks to the final discovery of oil painting, I finally felt was painting meant.The serious decision of becoming a painter came after my sterile, unartistic, one-year long experience of engineer's work.

Currently, I'm running a software programming studio in Bordeaux. Despite this time consuming daytime activiy, I take painting very seriously, forcing myself to paint everyday, little or a lot.

My personal style that had refined with years is characterized by an obsessive attention to details, which makes the creation of a canvas an extremely long process.Due to the long and intense dedication it requires for me to paint, I have developed a quite ambiguous relationship with painting: the activity that's liberating me from the fast-paced rhythm of modern life and its mind-corrupting productivity exigencies, is the very one that plunge myself into a deep solitude and inner worrying. Despite a colorful palette and some apparently positive themes, I don't manage to hide a certain sadness, and a loneliness palpable.I'm sure of one thing anyway: painting is saving my soul.

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Guestbook

Thank you for sharing your art I very much enjoy the beauty of the world you see in your fascinating imagination it takes my heart to lands of delightful wonder :) you're journey of art reminds me a lot of mine and that love hate relationship of our attention to detail is for sure a mutual feeling ^^ we chose the harder but more rewording and beautiful path. I look forward to watching more of where it takes you :)

Hi ! I will write an article on my site about your works and about You. I will send an email when it will be done. It will present your works with your name. And will have link to your portfolio. Hope that You will like it .

Bests !

Michaël

Dec. 21, 2013 23:10

Hello Dariusz! I'm so sorry, there was a problem on my blog comments system that was hiding the newest messages, and I couldn't see yours... So today I discovered the article you wrote. Many thanks, that was very nice, and particularly flattering to be offered a comparison with this incredible polish painter Siudmak. He has been one of my strongest inspirations back when I started to paint with oils.
A link to your article http://inspirowany.pl/2013/02/19/michael-zancan/

Hello! I first noticed your artworks on deviantart. Your paintings are amazing. I'm from Los Angeles, california and wonder if you know any artists here? I want to be learn how to oil paint. I've always loved drawing and would like to try painting. However, I can't seem to find any good art teachers here. Do you recommend any artists? I simple love your paintings and wish i could paint half as great as you >.<

HelloMy name is Mare and I discovered your art today. It is truly remarkable. Thank you for sharing this wonderful site. I am a contributor to an amazing site called What's Hot & On Top. I would love to interview you for a front page feature. This is done through email. Thanks again and I hope to hear from you soon. Regards

Thank you very much for your wishes Michael. I will sure need them a lot, because after a long long time that I've been scrambling with my self, and resisting to my canvas and my palettes (damn resistance!!), i think that i finally made the decision to paint as often as i can, so i can make an exhibition, and show my work to the public. Well, I'm still searching the style, but I'm sure i will find it! ... oh, great work with the postcards! I wish you always the best. and.. just waiting for your next painting!greetings from Greece! :-)

Simran

Aug. 11, 2011 6:22

Hi Michael,(I posted on your deviantART profile, but just now found your website).I'm very inspired by your artwork and your overall passion. I am a 16-year old girl in North America. I have quite a lot of time to decide what I want to do in life. I've considered everything from Neuroscience from the Fine arts to International Relations. I'm still not sure.I do drawing and occasionally painting on the side as a hobby, as school takes up nearly my life! But I think your work has made me more inspired to try and explore more areas of the arts and what I'm passionate about. How did you learn to paint with oils? I tried, and I've always wanted to paint 'people' in oils, but I don't know how. Was it just trial and error? Or did you take classes? Regardless, you're amazing, and I wish you the best of luck!-an inspired artist

Hello there, Michael.I just want to say that I like your work and your style very much.You use great colors and it seems that you have worked on human anatomy pretty well! Keep doing this great paintings, you give us inspiration.!...and don't forget... certain sadness, and loneliness are feelings that we all artists have from time to time, i completely understand you. In that way we are never alone! These feelings are very strong and help us create and imagine. It's a great trip within our perfect souls. Well, sometimes it may seems difficult, but it makes us stronger. :-)well... I'd better stop writing and start painting!!

Michaël

Aug. 21, 2011 17:14

Hi Νόπη,
Those feelings, do they show this much throughout my works? I wish that painting wasn't just a cure for sadness sometimes...
But it certainly helps when someone knocks at your door and tells you how much she would like you to keep it up. Thank you a lot, and all my wishes for you and your art as well!

A Work simply amazing, I have no words... your art is full of magic, it has something really special. As you say, small details create the magic, so many words in just one draw.Is there any chance to buy any of your pictures?Cheers

Michaël

Jul. 15, 2011 16:14

Hi...! I am sorry for the awful delay :/ Thank you very much for your appreciation, it means to me, although I feel a bit like an impostor for I don't paint at the moment...
There are 2 sites selling prints of my works, both are located in US, I guess not the best option if you are located elsewhere. Maybe you could send me an email and tell me which you'd like, so I can see what I can do.

Nicole

Mar. 29, 2011 2:14

Hello Michael! Your artwork absolutely amazes me. You definitely earned the spot of my favorite Artist ever! As a young artist I look up to your work and use you as a role model. I am still learning painting/drawing techniques and trying to figure out "the ways of the paintbrush" hahaha. It can be a little frustrating at times. I have been in love/inspired by your Home and the Fairies piece for years!!! My mom bought it for my birthday today, I totally freaked out in happiness. Keep up the good work!-Nicole.

Annlee

Jan. 25, 2011 8:12

Hello Michael,

I admire your artwork :-) I like how your paintings' characters and their environments are so full of life and emotion--each tells a story. They all have such gorgeous detail.

For quite some time, my life's been completely consumed by work and everyday responsibilities. I had neglected, and at times, forgotten my passion of drawing. I couldn't even remember the last time I've created an illustration simply for enjoyment. It must've been years.

However, when I came across your fantasy paintings months ago (a friend sent me a link), they reminded me of what I wanted to do my whole life. Your artwork inspired me to get back to doing my hobby again. I promised myself to at least every once in a while, stop and take some time to draw and continue to learn oil painting.

Proud to say that I've been sketching regularly and have completed two of my first oil paintings. They've been enjoyable, stress-relieving escapes from the demands of life.

I absolutely love your work. It is breathtaking and deep with emotion and the colors are perfect. Each detail is perfect! Just wonderful!! I also have featured you this week on my art blog. It is www.crystalyeagerstudio.blogspot.com . I feature a new artist each week that I think is exceptional and unique.

Michaël

Dec. 18, 2010 23:10

Hi Crystal, thanks for your lovely message and for featuring these works in your blog ! Keep up the love for art :)

A big thanks for that. I learnt to paint by looking at books on the old masters, so that would be where the realism comes from. Just now beginning to paint the stuff I really want to be painting, scenes from my imagination, oh it's taken so long.
My Deviant Art name is raetea, that's the forest I live next to.

Hi Michael
I'm an oil painter from the other side of the world, also born in 1976, just joined Deviant art and found one of your paintings there. I love your work, it's so full of feeling and I can just see the time and energy that goes into it. If you have time to visit my blog and look at my paintings I would love that.
Magda xx

Michaël

Nov. 27, 2010 10:57

Hi Magda,
I've visited your website and read bits of your blog. You are doing a really good job with realism! I enjoyed reading about the various recipes that you came up with, such as painting without solvants. What is your DA nickname so we can stay tuned? x

Hello, I recently came apon your art and was just blown away by the magnificent detail and style that you have. I'm seventeen right now and also am an oil painter, though not anywhere as good as you. I've thought in the past time that painting is nothing. But reading this page just made me feel so great, and hopeful about one day feeling something along your lines. Painting because it comes from the inside.

Hi,
Reading your message and knowing you are only seventeen makes me believe that you already have the right comprehension of what motivation for art should be. I had to wait until the age of 24-something before I understood how important painting was.
Although I'm not planning to give up, not the least bit, i still appreciate a lot your encouragements. For you I'd say you have to keep listening to your inner voice, and paint, because it's a lot of beauty, because it saves, no matter the million things that will try to keep you away.

Cheshire

Oct. 13, 2010 13:20

You sound like an intresting person to know. I wish I could paint like that, but it surprised me that you started so late (most talented persons started so early it seems) it kind of gives me hope for my own futer.x

Michae your work never ceases to amaze me. It is just beautiful and brilliant. Congratulations on your continued success. Is there anywhere on line that the book you have completed is available ?
I love love love your work.

Michaël

Oct. 22, 2010 0:07

Hi Iva, thank you very much for your kind comment. Hi remember you from the family name and the print store from Australia ! Long ago, isn't it ?
So sorry about "The book", it isn't a book actually, but the name of a painting :/ ... I have much much work to paint before a book become possible !

RAir

Oct. 8, 2010 20:39

Hello Michaël,
Your artworks are indescribable ..and so alive :). I think you've achieved a high level of expression, which is amazing. :).
..I've just entered computer science studies and somehow got even more attracted to drawing (I love to draw (if you can call it like that), but so far I've made only sketches except my drawings, which I left at school). The thing is that I can't find a relation between the logical, mathematical thinking and irrational, artistic side of mind. When I get involved into drawing, it's like the mind is cleaning itself and start speaking in other language than maths or programming (maybe that's because I get too much involved?). I can't say that I forget everything, but I think I should focus on my studies, because it's getting quite disturbing (otherwise I could fail). No matter how big the attraction to drawing is, I still have chosen to drop it (or postpone if posibble) and sometimes use it for the inner self growth. (I could choose drawing as a proffesion, but there was no possibility and I think that you can't live only from it in my country).
..So I just wanted to ask: how about you? How do you manage to work as a programmer and get involved into painting? Do you think that those two fields don't have a relation between?
It would be interesting to see your thoughts about this. ^_^

sheila zancan

Sep. 29, 2010 4:31

My son's name is Michael Zancan, do you know the origin of the name,Zancan?

Michaël

Oct. 8, 2010 20:58

Hi Sheila,
I'm glad I have a living homonym ! How old's your son ?
I'm not sure about the origin of the name. It comes from Italy, though my grand-father told it could have roots in Austria. No clue about its meaning. Where are you from ?

Though I haven't fully tried painting, I'd love to.
But, for now, I'm an aspiring photographer and hope to make it in the industry.
I truly find you, all of your work inspirational, and I hope the best for you and your artwork,

Michaël

May 8, 2010 1:37

Thanks Julianna. And good luck with photography! I know I will never becom a good photographer, but I do photograph anyway, for the pleasure of going purposeless. You should definitely give oil painting a try, at least for its relaxing abilities.

analiza

May 5, 2010 22:13

I leave real world very often. When people talk to me, I sometimes stop listening to them and start listening to voices in my head and see different things. I'm in my world... :)... mhmm...

The worst thing is that i can't 'go' there when I'm sad. Real world becomes so overwhleming. I haven't learnt yet how to run away when I really need to. Why is that? Why the worst things of real world are so powerful that they don't let me go?

But when I look at your paintings, they help me to return to world which I know so well, after all these years :), Maybe just for a few seconds, minutes but still... they know my soul. Don't you think it's a beautiful thing? You should be proud of yourself! I'd like to thank you for that! :)

Michaël

May 8, 2010 1:19

I too am reaching for a place where to escape from real world. Painting's the right hideaway, but most of the time, getting there require a fight. I understand what you mean by reality being overwhelming. I think that stopping the clocks, forgetting about time, acting slow, taking months, years to achieve a painting is a great weapon against the fast-paced, devouring busyness of our lives.

You are such an inspiration to me -- and to think that I've only seen your deviantart page today.

Every word you say is like the fresh smell of mint and the artworks you create is given life by you're undying passion for arts.

I wish I'd be as passionate as you are because I'm kind of insecure about my art style. people somewhat judge my artworks to much and i hope someday, I'll be able to release my inner potential -- and I wish that I could meet you one day and talk to you about art (even though I'm on the south east coast of the earth). Haha!

Inspire more people and blessed be!

Michaël

May 8, 2010 1:33

You know you should really not matter about people's judgements, and trust your own will instead. Improving your self-criticism could improve your technics, and letting yourself go freely, will preserve the freshness of your creativity. I'm not saying that one shouldn't listen to critics and advices; but one certainly has to be careful with those. Every word that attack or lower down your creative will should remain unheard.

Ciara

Mar. 27, 2010 13:40

I first saw part of your drawing "Tears of Joy in the Garden of Giants" when I was browsing google images and I absolutly loved it so I went back later to see if I could find the whole picture and so I've just discovered your website. I haven't looked at all of your paintings yet but I definatly will. "Tears of Joy in the Garden of Giants" seems to represent absolute joy and love of life and every time I look at it I can feel all the joy and love it represents it's just so beautiful.C'est absolument magnifique, moi aussi je dessine depuis que je suis petite et maintenant je suis au lycée en option art plastiques et c'est géniale! Merci d'avoir donné au monde tes dessins si joli.

Alicia

Feb. 23, 2010 22:43

Hello Michael

I am terrible with words ... I was on deviantArt hoping to get some inspiration and I came across your art. I just started to learn how to paint. I draw more and I just wanted to tell you that I hope I can become as great of an artist as you. I think you have created a beautiful bittersweet world.

Alicia

Riddhi

Feb. 18, 2010 11:00

I keep viewing you work ALL day long man. I have my exams coming i guess i should stop doing that . Haha
But ,really Your stuff is really awesome.
And I relate to the doodling in my notebooks part, because I get punished for it too .A whole lot, at that.
Grrreat stuff :)
See you around.

pink

Feb. 17, 2010 21:12

Beautiful work!

ty.

Jan. 16, 2010 5:48

you sir. amaze me. im seventeen years old and wish to be the man you are today.from programming to painter you're work is breath-taking and inspiring.

hopefully i'll one day be someone like you

Michaël

Jan. 18, 2010 22:35

You will manage and even better! Nothing can prevent someone from succeeding except himself. It may take time, just keep up.

Taylor

Jan. 3, 2010 22:09

I'm sure you hear this plenty - as seeing the first few messages here and the one's on dA; but you're extremely talented! I just want to let you know I'm a huge fan of your artwork, paintings and all! Ever since I was a kid I loved to draw, sketch, doodle, whatever I could use or get my hands on, but I never tried painting. Just glancing at your paintings inspire me to do much, much more.

Everything about your art is breathtaking. Every little detail! I can tell just by looking at it it took you a while, and that's what I need to learn about art! It isn't something you can just rush through and pray it looks good in the end. I can tell you put a lot of passion and creativity into your artwork. I think that's what I love about it, and perhaps envy you.

Michaël

Jan. 18, 2010 22:41

I'm pleased that you could find the passion hidden in my paintings. I hope to continue to paint with deep feelings and unconditional faith, although I'm often scared that I someday loose the energy to fight the unartistic and the insensitive that are so virulent in this evil world out there.
Many thanks for the nice comment. You should definitely try out on paint. It is amazing on so many levels.

You leave me pretty much speechless, though I believe you get that a lot. Your story is amazing, as well as your work, it reflects your soul in a beautiful way. I feel such inner joy that you have found a way to channel all this through art, you were born for this.

I wish you all the best in your life, there will be the day your name will become great. And never stop painting, please...

Warm holiday greetings from some other side of the world. V.

brooke

Nov. 23, 2009 15:30

my life is beginning to spiral out of control and im only thirteen.
looking at your painting makes me think how much i love it.
its the thing that keeps pulling me back from the plundge into the depths of a still nothingness.
drugs, alcahol and rape keep sucking me down but the brushs on canvas keep pulling me one step forward but i always go two steps back,
if i keep at it i hope to get nearly as good as you and as calm and collected as i wish to be.
such is life, we make it or we break it.

These pieces creates muses entirely on their own. (Or rather, it lures the elusive muses from their hideouts.) They're lovely and, as others have said, inspiring. I truly enjoy looking through your online gallery (and dropping into your world. It makes me a little sad to leave it). I hope to see an exhibition in person eventually. Keep going!

Isabella

Aug. 7, 2009 12:41

Hi...

your work is such an incredible inspiration to me - I just wanted to say thanks.
You keep reminding me to carry on trying to find the pleasure in details and the value of beauty. To me, you are the greatest artist of this time and one day I wanna see the orignials in an exhibition! (no matter how far I've to travel!) - Please: never stop, no matter what's happening!

Michaël

Aug. 7, 2009 21:50

I'm given evidences everyday that painting is the worthiest thing. Stopping isn't part of my plans! Thank you for the encouraging words, they are of real value for me.

j.

Jul. 19, 2009 14:21

do you have a facebook account?

Quizzz

Jul. 7, 2009 7:15

Hi, Michael!
Your works are great as well as their incredible magic stories, I really like your concepts) We say in russian "талантливый человек талантлив во всём"- I think it is just for you, I'm sure, you succed in all technics you tried.
Could I ask you a question? Do you use photoes while drawing (I mean your heroes)?
I am looking forward to seeing your new artworks, which are like a pure sunlight in the darkness of everyday problems...
P.S. Sorry for my aaawful English, I need centures to make it better )))

Michaël

Aug. 7, 2009 22:02

Hi! Sorry first for the late reply :/
A robot gave me a perfect translation of this saying in russian, which I received with much gladness. I'm not sure though, whether eclecticism is preferable over specialty nowadays. Curiosity and the pleasure to create draw us toward every possible vector of artistic expression. But the task is so immense, shouldn't we just try to concentrate on what we are best at ?
Your english sounds really good so far. To answer your question, yes indeed, I use some reference photographs (that I shoot myself) for the convenience of it. But nothing replaces a living model.

Dear Michael,I couldn't go without commenting any longer. You are an AMAZING painter. Your work astounds me to no ends. Every time I visit your site, and I view each painting yet again, I find new details and things I did not notice before. I only wish one day I could get my skills even close to yours-for I have started just last year with acrylic painting.

Please continue your work, it is beautiful, and I enjoy so much to just sit and view it.

You have a great website, and ofcourse an amazing galery! I'm impressed, I'm in love with your art!Keep up the good work!

Kirk C. Peterson

Jun. 23, 2009 18:23

Dear Michael, What a beautiful experience I had discovering your work. I am a ballet choreographer who works with many different kinds of artists all the time and I also paint and sketch myself. I find your work truly wonderful and inspired. Viewing each painting took me to another realm of experience, I was completely transfixed. Please, keep doing what you do for what you do is very special and should be treasured. Never doubt that you are very special and extremely gifted. I look forward to seeing more of your work through the years. Most sincerely, Kirk

Michaël

Jun. 25, 2009 21:01

Dear Kirk - Those words of encouragement from a highly respected ballet artist such as yourself reach me deeply. Your own artistic field evokes patience and dedication, a passion for body language, a quest for emotion that I can't help but feel through your message. Much gratitude for this; even at slow pace I hope to not disappoint you in the years to come. Thanks.

Sabina

Jun. 14, 2009 19:00

I suppose it's needless to say that your talent really is something great, almost incroyable :) I adore your use of colour, really. You make them work so well, bringing softness and movement into your works.

I wish I could do that, but unfortunately I don't know if I'll ever get that far. I do love to draw though (and looking at lovely pieces like yours - very inspiring :D ).

I've always seen the use of oils as very hard....but I've actually never tried it myself. Do you use any other techniques while making art?

I'll be going to Paris for a couple of weeks this summer. Maybe I'll see some of your works over there :)

Keep up the great work, hopefully your inspiration will never run out!

Cermina

May 27, 2009 10:18

Hi! I've listened to Loreena McKennitt's album and I'm in awe. Its very enchanting much like your artworks, I would definitely follow your suggestions. How's about music in French? I think the language would greatly enhance the theme, being it romantic and all. By the way, you haven't spared me any "torment", I've read it in your poetry. And I must say, those are fine ingredients you've added. Thank you very much for sharing! I feel extremely ecstatic to get suggestions from someone I really look up to. :)

Cermina

May 20, 2009 11:17

Your works inspire me. I'm an art student (a painting major) and I'm about to start my thesis of a painting soon, I really wish I could make it of even just as close as of your caliber. I love your themes and the feel that your paintings give. With the colors, composition and everything, I absolutely love it. Can you give me any suggestions? Like scenes to see or music to hear? It would be utmost helpful. :)

Michaël

May 25, 2009 19:25

Hi Cermina. I'm very glad that you feel inspired by those paintings. Your question seems relevant, since those paintings were done in special moments, when the setup was right for the connection between heart and matter to happen. However, it would be hard to put down in words a recipe that would work in all cases ! Every person is so much different, aren't they? Usually a lonely stroll at night with ethereal music in earphones works well. For the music, I'd go for a Loreena McKennitt album, let's say Elemental. I spare you the inner torment of a hopeless romantic heart in the ingredients, but I'd lie if I said it doesn't help.

I of course found you on DA and it gives me hope that I can work harder and learn more. I agree it takes a sort of maturity and patience later on to get better ( like fine wine art gets better with age) If you ever have a chance to read some of Charles De Lint's work you might find some inspiration there he tends to put fairy in a modern light. :) Again glorious pieces I only hope to have your patience someday :)

Krista

Mar. 21, 2009 4:45

Your artwork is fantastic. As a college student studying illustration, I aspire to be that good one day.

Michaël

Apr. 8, 2009 20:17

I'm sure you'll be better! You know I started late, am slow working and approaching the climax. I'll be on the regressive slope soon. Yes, everyone gets old eventually. I hope not yet though ;)

hey.. you're very talented i can say.. i hope to be like you in future..hahaha, hose paintings were very,very great..the color,shapes,lies, tones ..everything.. It is all interesting and it makes "sense"..HOpe we could chat, so I can ask all i wanted to know about painting..Bye.. and take care!!

Brianna

Feb. 11, 2009 9:56

Have a myspace?

Michaël

Feb. 23, 2009 2:03

Yep :)
It's easy to find! But so you know, I'm not using it much.

Ines

Jan. 24, 2009 23:47

One question, what's with that paintin "Pas d'Ange"? Why don't you upload it in your gallery? =)

Michaël

Jan. 25, 2009 4:04

Aw, sorry i'm sounding tortured and secretive again ;)
This painting is very different from what I use to paint, it's uncolored, humid, mystical. I'm a little embarrassed to show it for that matter, but the real reason is that it reminds me moments I would like to fade away; which will slowly happen, until it doesn't matter to much to me anymore.
I was also thinking of presenting it when I have something more cheerful to show alongside.

Blue

Jan. 19, 2009 20:03

I fell in love with "Garden of Giants" thanks to your DevianArt's well deserved DD. Congratulations, once again. I followed the "crumbs", you left behind, and ended up in here.

Your work is breathtakingly beautiful. Details are simply exquisite. Perspective is both intricate and unique. I'm in awe.

Michaël

Jan. 25, 2009 4:09

Thank you Blue, for sharing your enthusiasm. I am currently working actively on a oil painted version of this very painting. I hope to finish it early this year. Stay tuned :)

I happened to be browsing deviantart again after a long time and I couldn't help but notice your paintings. Not only are they technically sound (and usually paintings which are like so tend to fall short of being emotionally gripping or stylistically unique) but yours are seriously ethereal. I love the fantasy landscapes. Your colour palette is also so dreamy and beautiful I can just stare at these for hours... which I'm actually doing now when I'm supposed to be sleeping.

I just had to comment after reading your writings and especially the line about painting saving your soul. It's just so good to know of someone so talented like yourself being so humble, hardworking and passionate... I do believe painting saves souls too. I can't imagine ever giving up to paint and thank you for being a motivation and my new favourite artist to watch.

Michaël

Dec. 14, 2008 1:13

Then I have been visiting your journal and could watch your drawings. I found them so lively! The perspectives are impeccable and the cropping you chose are audacious. I really felt comfortable inside the mood they conveyed: softness, authenticity, and all those details seeming perfectly in place.
Your paintings are also very good, vibrant, and still this unusual cropping that seems natural to you.
I didn't browse backwards for too long, but all I can say is that I really enjoyed my visit. Thank you!

Olivia

Nov. 26, 2008 22:18

I don't often come across artists that I feel strongly enough about them to leave a comment on their page, but I feel like it'd be criminal if I didn't at least mention how much I enjoy your paintings and sketches (and reading through the journal ;) I'm a painter myself...only for my own purposes, but nevertheless, I like seeing new things, and I think your page has helped inspire me.

I really don't know what I'm trying to say with this comment, haha, except that you have amazing talent. Technique isn't hard to learn, I believe it to be quite easy, but the originality I see in your work inspires me. I think inspiration is the most difficult part about painting...so in conclusion...your work is beautiful, and thank you :)

Michaël

Dec. 14, 2008 1:20

Ah, that was a long comment indeed, and I feel bad for not replying sooner. You are right about technique, it is just something to learn and with practice, anyone learns. The real essence of art is way beyond the mastery of tools. This undefined ability we'd like to catch on demand, but it's mischievous and untamable... sometimes, only sometimes, it gives you a spark of that magic powder.
See? I also can rant randomly about a subject ;)
It was nice of you to tell you enjoyed your time as a viewer.

Etlek

Nov. 15, 2008 7:11

.... and yet in every stroke you have achieved to capture all there is in me. With your existence you have blessed my soul....... I am Etlek, age 21... all my live I have expressed myself through drawing and painting without making justice to the images that I see on my mind. I wish I only had the opportunity to learn the techniques..... I have learned all that I know about this art on my own, yet I know I can do better. By reading your bio and learning how late you began I then am hopeful for myself. With your work you have given me new energies. Thank you! I admire you deeply...

Michaël

Nov. 16, 2008 22:04

I think that painting, no matter the result, is an act of truth, where your inner essence, your emotions, the matter and the time marry. If you have that force boiling inside of you, then release it into art because it's more worthwhile than anything else, and something you will never regret for yourself. Fare well, Etlek, and thank you for posting!

As many others before me, I came across your website through DeviantArt.

I must say that I adore your work and your attention to detail. I am also prone to being obsessive over details... I can spend hours, days even, on one tiny element of a piece and if that bit goes wrong then the whole piece isn't worth it anymore.

I admire you very much for your technical ability and originality, also your thought-provoking writings, and look forward to seeing more of your work online soon.

Fish x

Michaël

Nov. 16, 2008 22:22

I've taken the tour to your gallery on DA ( just to verify your saying ;)) and I admit, your pencil works show you're even more crazy with details than me! Isn't it therapeutic somehow to immerse oneself for hours in those?
Thank you Fish for stopping by, and have more fun with pencils!

I won't say that you're incredibly, amazingly talented because many people have already told you that and you must know that by now. I will only say that I came across this website through DeaviantArt, and while marveling at your artwork I also read a lot of what you have written on here...and your honesty and your emotional rawness moved me deeply. You're not only a wonderful artist, you're a wonderful person. So...yeah, just remember that once, one night, your writings made a lonely, sleepless Italian guy almost misty-eyed at 2.40 am. Hope to catch you on DA soon! :)

Michaël

Oct. 21, 2008 23:05

Hi Ciro! I was very glad to hear, and it made me smile, too, which I thank you for. Yeah to Italy!

Your work is really inspiring! My self I do a lot of sketching, street art, and graphic design. Although I'm not as good at graffiti as I would like, graphic design has seemed to take its toll on me and grasped me in ways I never thought possible. Although I'm not good at what I do, I still love it.

I like the fact that you have also done graffiti in your early days, I've grown into a more abstract style, not wildstyle but something completely different my word is not even a word anymore more like a splotch of paint that looks intense (atleast to me it does) I hope to see more works from you on DA!

Gorgeous works. The combination of technical skills and talented art works is very rare thing and such people like u are of genious. Thanx for great time that your works made me contemplating them :) Greetings from Russia

Michaël

Oct. 21, 2008 23:09

Thank you! I visited your website, but I didn't much get it. Such a mysterious alphabet ;)

kristen

Oct. 7, 2008 0:30

i just wanted to let you know that you have really inspired me to oil paint (and try a little more painting in general) are there any techniques that you have learned that you find helpful?

Michaël

Oct. 21, 2008 22:54

Hi Kristen... I would love to help but this is an impossible task you are asking. Painting is an ever-learning experience, and a beautiful journey. Keep faith! :)

Jenny

Sep. 30, 2008 13:04

Do you have a boyfriend? :D

Michaël

Sep. 30, 2008 14:18

ha ha! Do I look like I should have one?

micha

Sep. 25, 2008 12:05

such a great gallery, i love your work man!

Susan

Sep. 22, 2008 5:42

I've been drawing my whole life and still can't seem to find my style. How long was it before you found yours? Was it just something living within you the whole time, or did you have to test various styles?

Michaël

Sep. 28, 2008 14:14

I began to paint quite late in fact, but after trying about every possible technique. As I try to focus to make a clear answer for you, I understand that it's not easy to gather facts and actions that guided me towards a particular style. I suppose that, being true to yourself, you end up painting with your personality. Finding a style might be alike finding who you are, which can take long depending on people.

There is much feeling in your works. A sense of longing that is easy for me to connect to. Keep doing it. Painting is magic. ( ;

Dominika

Aug. 18, 2008 12:33

I'm really glad that I met you here and could saw your works. This is a great feeling to saw how you can express yourself in art. It's like find a little beauty suddenly. I like you and admire your works, without know you personally (thanks da:))... Take care

Richard

Aug. 18, 2008 4:08

I came across your work on deviantArt cuz it was a featured piece ... Home and the Fairies ... it took me 30 minutes to look at everything in the painting ... On a second look-see, I found something I'd not seen during the first 30 minute study! Your work is fascinating and stunning and I simply love it. On going through your other works at dA, I discovered a link to your website and here I am. You're an amazing artist and computer wizard as well it seems! ... I love the drawings you put at the bottom of each page in the left hand corner ... although they are exquisitely detailed and awesome, the make me see you as hurrying a quick little drawing to individualize each page. And while I'm sure there's nothing "quick" about them, it is the spirit of them that makes me think that ... you are amazingly talented and I'm glad I found your works. I guess that's it *smile* ... signing off from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma USA. g'night.

It's odd that I know a lot of webdesigners who are involved in photography or painting :) I have about four friends photographers who work as webdesigners too.Anyway, very very nice job you're doing here, congrats!!

Yuri

Jul. 27, 2008 19:27

I can't possibly say anything that has not already been said about you on this website. You are indeed very talent. I like how most of your paintings are surrounded by a strong sensation of bliss and eternal happiness. They are a pleasure to watch and should serve as an inspiration to all those other disoriented and suicidal artists out there. Congrats! I look forward to seeing more of your masterpieces in the near future.

Hallo! I've been watching you on DeviantArt for a while now and visited this site now and then but never had the courage to comment. I just wanna say that your art is really beautiful and the pieces are all so deep and meaningful. The worlds you create are so real and absorbing they make you wanna dive into them. Your pieces always have such depth to them, even though you don't take art classes. I would like to know how do you deal with perspectives? Did you learn them from your engineering courses and where do you find inspiration for your pieces? Any references used? I'm sorry if I'm asking too many questions. >___<

Your artwork is beautiful, and carries with it a delicacy of detail that I've rarely seen on canvas lately. I would dearly love to see these in the flesh. A shame I live in England, not France! Whilst from your own admission you paint so few works in a year, what does that matter for us? Any one of your pieces, no matter how long it takes for us to see it, is worth it. They are dear imagination incarnate. Thank you, for all your efforts.

Michaël

Apr. 27, 2008 18:34

This was very soothing. Please accept my thankfulness as well.

Liza

Apr. 4, 2008 6:10

how can someone as beautiful as you be so lonley? I will never understand that

Michaël

Apr. 7, 2008 11:13

It depends both on your perception and my personality. There can be so much bias in between! And maybe what's to understand is that loneliness is, precisely, what you feel is beautiful.

Noreen

Mar. 22, 2008 8:55

Your work is wonderfully inspiring. Thank you very much for sharing. I'm nearly 19 now and I've just found painting and hope I reach your level some time. I'm finding it difficult though as everything I do doesn't turn out even close to what I had in my mind. Did you ever find that a problem at first, where you thought your work was utter rubbish.. or were you a natural from the beginning. I'm always interested in what people started off like and what they ended up like. Again, thanks for sharing, it's people like you that teach me to keep at it!

Michaël

Mar. 22, 2008 11:31

I did struggle, and I still do.
First it takes some time to study, observe, assimilate the theory that will help you guide up your creative energy towards the idea you're aiming at. It's even a daily, never-ending learning task.
In the meantime it requires you to free up yourself and let the gestures go, even imperfect; that takes time to, and is more related to the knowledge of yourself, I think.
But i'd say that the essence lies in two things: will, and work.
I always start an piece with flashes of the finished image displaying suddenly in my mind.
Then the flash needs to be remembered, deconstructed, thought off, tried out, and worked out. A lot of work. And it's never easy, you know.
So. Just keep up! ;)

zunera

Feb. 2, 2008 0:26

So your not one of those depressed artist are you?
and by the way painting is saving my soul too.....

Denise

Jan. 20, 2008 19:52

Please continue to inspire people through your works. They are more than warm and lovely <3

Cheers from the far side of the globe (Yes, Southeast Asia)!

Tadziq

Jan. 12, 2008 12:36

Impressive works, indeed. I'm really fond of your style which connects both care for details and intriguing imaginative visions. I like those antique/classical motives too. Keep up the good work!

Nice site too, by the way. ;-)

Michaël

Jan. 14, 2008 16:40

Thanks for stopping by and dropping those warming up words..

Kimia

Jan. 3, 2008 18:22

Your paintings are Amazing.

Karina

Dec. 21, 2007 15:57

Have you thought about creating some sort of nightclass or something? I think it'd be a hit hehe... I know I love the one I'm in (with a spanish artist living here in Denmark). I think you have so much "wisdom" to give, that it would be a shame not to.
I'm very impressed by your technique, I'm pretty sure I would make a mess by painting like that (doing one thing at a time and not just do the background and then layer on top op that - if that made any sense)

Michaël

Jan. 14, 2008 16:46

I'm not sure I could handle it.. I never attend any class myself, so I don't feel like I'm legitimate to teach anything... as you mentioned it's more a question of "wisdom" than technique, seen as a state of mind, passion, inner doors opened to dreams...
And hello Denmark! (just a lil bit late ooops :/ )

I absolutly love your art! You have a very fine feeling for the line. I'm 22 years old. I hope someday in the future I'm as good as you're now!

Michaël

Dec. 3, 2007 16:14

That's the age I started to paint with oils :)

Benjamin

Nov. 22, 2007 5:29

You life some how feels like a future reflection of my own.

To many eyes over look an individual like yourself.

Claudia

Nov. 18, 2007 20:01

Hm... Iam really impressed of both your art and your website...it is really fantastic. I like your painting style, it has gt such a creativaé and great mixture of realistic and fantasy elements. I must say hearing that yoiu actually started painting with 22 gives me hope for my own artistic development...

Go on with your great work!

Michaël

Nov. 18, 2007 23:06

I don't know your age, but in hindsight I think I didn't have the maturity to paint well back in my early twenties. I also consider that everything is yet to be learnt, so don't focus on the age: painting is a lifetime long learning experience.
And thanks for the kind words. I'm keeping on anyway, whatever the obstacle coming my way!

Marion Johnson

Oct. 12, 2007 17:17

You are a very talented painter,the paintings are amazing.I also paint and they are truly inspiring!

I see that we have a lot in common. I also started out as a programmer in my high school and college days until a few months ago, when I got fed up with the non-artistic life of my computer work. I discovered the wonder of painting and I have started on a new course to focusing on art.

Thank you for showing your paintings to the world. Merci, Merci. They are truly inspiring for someone like me. Just turned 22, and new to the relaxing, yet exciting world of painting. I hope that when I am your age, I can create something as wonderful. Also, I hope I can learn your language, Je ne parle pas encore très bien le français... but I'm learning!

Michaël

Oct. 12, 2007 15:08

It's great you found some completeness in the act of painting; finding the right balance between making art and living is a tough battle nowadays. And good luck with your french :)

I must say that your art really does amaze me. I don't think that I have seen anything like it before, or at least not in a very long time. For one, I love how real it all looks and then you add this twist in the reality. I love how detailed everything is, your backgrounds most of all.

At first I thought that you were just using some cg program to color, but then I noticed you said that you painted it. Hope you don't mind me asking but what did you use to paint? I just started playing around with acrylics and oil pastels but they don't look anything like your colorings. Maybe its just I don't know jack about techniques yet? Anyways, I would love to talk to you about your art and inspirations some time, that is, if you're willing?

~Jenna

Michaël

May 12, 2007 18:27

That was a nice comment Jenna.
I use mainly oil paints, which are still widely used by artists, but those don't showcase they art much on the internet. When I began to paint I bought a cheap box of primary colors and started to play around with them. It all came naturally after a little while. You should give it a try, it's not that hard. You can give me a shout if you'd like to hear more insightful tips someday.

I was browsing through deviantart, when i came upon the Home and Faeries artwork. I must say, you are really talented! I wanted to leave a comment for asking permission to display a print out of some of your work, for my resource book for my art classes? Whenever we find something that we like, or inspires us, we have to give information and examples, and I absolutely love your work!